June 18, 2009

Swine Flu Update 9

Currently on the West Coast there are three people awaiting test results for swine influenza A (H1N1). One (previously advised) is from Westport and two from the Grey District. Given the changeable nature of the situation regarding this influenza, these numbers are likely to alter at short notice.

New Zealand remains in the containment phase although planning is underway to move to a 'manage it' phase when required.

While the number of cases of the new influenza H1N1 is increasing in New Zealand, there are still relatively few cases, but there are increasing instances of community transmission.

Preventing, delaying and minimising the arrival of further cases of infection into New Zealand and controlling any cases or clusters that are found in New Zealand remains the current objective. Containment involves both border management (keep it out) and cluster control (stamp it out), but as more cases are confirmed in the community the focus will need to shift to boosting the way care is provided in the community. The decision on where best to direct the efforts of health professionals is reviewed daily.

Planning for the next phase is to enable community based health services to manage large numbers of people with influenza as well as maintain services for patients with other illnesses. An important part of this approach will include advising individuals how to look after themselves at home where this is possible - in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

Travellers

The Ministry has refined the advice to international travellers arriving in New Zealand. Better information about the incubation period of the disease means that only people with flu-like symptoms within four days of overseas travel are now considered to be at risk of having the new influenza A (H1N1).

Public Health professionals are present at the border and information is being provided to travellers.

Advice for workplaces

For most workplaces it is business as usual and staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having new influenza A (H1N1) public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.

How to protect yourself and others

Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
If you are caring for someone with the flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: difficulty breathing, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or developing confusion. More information can be found on the Victorian Health website and Centre for Disease Control website.

Be Prepared - at home and in the workplace

Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they're prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water regularly and dry them thoroughly.
Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag

More information on influenza can be obtained from the following sources:

Anyone with any personal health concerns regarding the swine flu should contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.

For more information please contact

Bryan Jamieson
Community Liaison Officer
West Coast DHB
PO Box 387
Greymouth 7840
Phone (DDI): (03) 769-7665
Mobile: 027 245-9595
Email: